|
Poland isn't disease - ridden place. Medical standards
aren't so as good as those found in most western European
countries. In large cities hospitals offer all forms
of treatment and modern diagnostic equipment. Private
clinics are also available; treatment is not free of
charge but is on a better standard. If you want to arrive
to Poland you should have a medical insurance. Any special
vaccinations aren't required. At present SARS doesn't
threaten Poland.
Poland is rather a safe country for foreigners. But
always be careful of your pocket and bag, because there
are many pickpockets in Poland. You should be especially
very careful in buses, overnight trains, narrow underpasses
and streets. Street crime, which is occasionally violent,
is high. Crime rates in Poland vary. Warsaw, Krakow,
and other major cities have higher rates of crime against
residents and foreign visitors. The tri-cities area
of Gdynia, Sopot, and Gdansk has a high incidence of
muggings, sometimes in broad daylight, which have sometimes
involved aggravated assault.
Alcohol consumption is an integral part of Polish social
tradition, and nondrinkers are relatively rare. Sometimes
drunks can be dangerous so keep away from cheap drink
bars. Don't enter suburban areas alone.
The loss or theft of a passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest embassy or consulate.
If you are the victim of a crime, in addition to reporting
to local police, please contact your embassy or consulate
for assistance. The embassy/consulate staff can, for
example, assist you to find appropriate medical care,
to contact family members or friends and explain how
funds could be transferred.
|
